I spend much of my working day helping people develop profitable relationships both online and in their local market.If I’ve learned anything, it’s that networking is networking.

For some reason many social networkers seem to forget all of the rules for building relationships the minute they log into their computer. As soon as they meet you they imediately pitch their product or opportunity. This is an approach that is doomed to failure and often results in their having their profile pages removed. What follows are 7 suggestions for building profitable relationship online.

1. Build the relationship before you talk about your business.
2. Strive to meet people who share similar inerests with you, make friends with enough people who look at life like you do and your business will prosper.
3. Take the time to learn about your new online friend.
4. Strive to help not sell.
5. Don’t presume that everyone you connect with is a prospect for your service or opportunity.
6. Make a friend first and if and only if your new friend has a need for what you have to offer ask permission to share what you have.
7. Develop a referral relationship, share what you do and learn what your online friends do so that you can help each other achieve your business and personal goals.

I’m firmly belive that givers gain, both online and offline. Focus on friends first and the business will follow.

Food for thought – a profitable relationship does not have to involve business. I believe that every friend I make online or offline adds value to my life, that true profit.

I hope you found this article to be informative and helpful. I welcome your comments and suggestions. If I can help you in any way feel free to contact me.